This Vanilla Pear Bourbon Cocktail is a sweet mix of rich bourbon, juicy pears, and a hint of vanilla. It’s smooth and perfect for sipping on cozy evenings!
Sometimes, I pretend I’m at a fancy bar while enjoying this drink at home. The combination is so delightful, you might find yourself saying “just one more!” 🍐🥃
I love how easy it is to make, just shake it up, pour, and enjoy. It’s a fun way to impress friends or treat yourself after a long day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon Whiskey: This is the star of the cocktail. I like using quality bourbon for the best flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, rye whiskey can also work, offering a spicier note.
Pear Nectar or Juice: Fresh pear juice makes a noticeable difference, but if you can’t find it, store-bought pear juice works fine too. It’s sweet and delicious! You can even use apple juice in a pinch for a different twist.
Vanilla Syrup: Homemade syrup is fantastic, but store-bought is perfectly acceptable if you’re short on time. If you want to cut the sweetness, you can skip it or use agave syrup as a lighter option.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the drink. Bottled juice can work in a hurry, but fresh is usually best for flavor.
How Do I Make My Vanilla Syrup Perfect?
Making homemade vanilla syrup is simple and adds a lot of flavor to your cocktails. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium until sugar fully dissolves, stirring gently.
- Add in a split vanilla bean for richer flavor (or vanilla extract), and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Store in the fridge so it’s ready for your next drink!
Having this syrup on hand opens a world of delicious cocktails. Enjoy experimenting with it on desserts too!
How to Make a Vanilla Pear Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz pear nectar or pear juice (fresh if possible)
- 0.5 oz vanilla syrup (see notes)
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh thyme sprig for garnish
- Pear slice for garnish (optional)
For the Vanilla Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you’re making the vanilla syrup from scratch, add an extra 5-10 minutes to cool. You’ll be sipping on this refreshing drink in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vanilla Syrup:
Start by making the vanilla syrup, which can be done ahead of time. In a small saucepan, mix the water and sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves. Add the split vanilla bean and its seeds (or vanilla extract), then let it simmer for about 5 minutes. After that, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. If you used a vanilla bean, strain the syrup before storing it in a sealed container in the fridge.
2. Shake the Cocktail:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Pour in the bourbon, pear nectar or juice, homemade vanilla syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds or until everything is well chilled.
3. Serve and Garnish:
Take an old-fashioned glass and fill it with fresh ice cubes. Carefully strain the cocktail mixture into the glass, ensuring a smooth pour. For an elegant touch, garnish your drink with a sprig of fresh thyme and if you like, a thin slice of pear resting on the rim.
4. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to kick back and enjoy your Vanilla Pear Bourbon Cocktail! Savor the smooth, fruity, and harmoniously spiced flavors. Cheers!
Notes:
For the best flavor, using fresh pear juice or nectar is highly recommended. If you need a quick alternative, high-quality store-bought pear juice works just as well. The vanilla syrup adds a wonderful sweetness while the thyme garnish provides an aromatic finish, enhancing the overall experience of this delightful cocktail. Enjoy mixing and sipping!
Can I Use a Different Whiskey Instead of Bourbon?
Yes, you can! While bourbon adds a rich sweetness, rye whiskey provides a spicier flavor that can complement the pear nicely. Feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, consider reducing the amount of vanilla syrup or using unsweetened pear juice. You can also squeeze a bit more lemon juice for extra acidity to balance the flavors.
Can I Make the Vanilla Syrup in Advance?
Absolutely! The vanilla syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a sealed container.
How Should I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
Store any leftover vanilla syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Fresh pear juice should also be refrigerated and used within 3-5 days for the best flavor. Keep bourbon in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly sealed.